NB to rehire police with stimulus money

The New Bedford Police Department stands to rehire 13 laid-off officers with federal grant money awarded Tuesday to more than 1,000 law enforcement agencies nationwide.

Brian Fraga

The New Bedford Police Department stands to rehire 13 laid-off officers with federal grant money awarded Tuesday to more than 1,000 law enforcement agencies nationwide.

Over the next three years, the department will receive $2.41 million in federal stimulus money — the second most of 13 law enforcement agencies in Massachusetts.

Under the grant's terms, the Police Department must use the money to pay for the officers' salaries and benefits. The department also must retain the officers for one year after the grant expires.

Police Chief Ronald E. Teachman said he received telephone calls Tuesday from the offices of U.S. Rep. Barney Frank and Sens. John F. Kerry and Edward M. Kennedy assuring him the federal money was forthcoming.

"I think we're OK to go forward," Teachman said.

"This gives us the opportunity to bring back 13 officers and increase our patrol force without waiting for future retirements. It's a good thing."

Mayor Scott W. Lang said the city needs the stimulus money.

"I think it's very important," he said. "These grants will help us keep New Bedford a safe city and will lead towards everything we've been trying to do in terms of public safety and improving the quality of life."